“It’s all about making a difference and seeing young minds learn and grow,” says Natalie Brown.
As a volunteer who provides students with extra support in reading, Natalie finds the role as a United Way Ready.Set.READ! tutor a rewarding experience. “I witness growth in students’ reading abilities and their confidence levels.”
For the past two years, she has volunteered with the United Way program one day a week throughout the school year at Millmont Elementary School in Reading. Why does Natalie commit to this volunteer role? She believes when kids have a solid foundation of reading skills in elementary school, it sets students up for success. “The programs provide one-on-one interaction between the student and the adult tutor, which also helps foster interpersonal skills and confidence.”
Natalie’s employer, FirstEnergy, encourages volunteerism, and she first learned about the program through the company. Ready.Set.READ! helps children improve their reading and literacy skills as the end of third grade is an important milestone for children. Up until that time, children learn to read; in fourth grade, students read to learn.
The program connects trained volunteer tutors with second graders in varied local school districts. Nearly 255 volunteer tutors provide reading support to more than 275 students, and more volunteers are needed, representing all backgrounds. Volunteer tutors spend one hour a week helping second grade students boost reading skills. No experience is necessary – – all volunteers attend a training session; all books and supplies are provided.
Natalie finds her volunteer experience meaningful, engaging and fun. Her enthusiasm shines through these words. “I love the energy, learning and growing that takes place in these young minds. My daughters are in their 20s now, and I miss being around school-age kids. Mentoring and building relationships with future generations is an opportunity I didn’t want to pass up.”
To volunteer, contact Darby at darbyw@uwberks.org or 610-685.4574. Visit www.ReadySetReadBerks.org to learn more.